Profile

Search

Search form

You are here

Meet the 2012 Mom Congress Massachusetts Delegate

Mom-of-two ML Nichols is co-founder of The Parent Connection, a nonprofit parent education group outside of Boston. She also launched The Parent Backpack, a blog that provides parents with resources and information. Find out what she likes to do without on family vacations, what she thinks about education in Massachusetts and more!

ML (Marylisa) Nichols is the 2012 Mom Congress Delegate for Massachusetts. A former PTA president, School Council co-chair and Education Foundation Grants chair, she is cofounder and director of The Parent Connection, a nonprofit parent education group outside of Boston. A passion for family-school dynamics led her to launch The Parent Backpack, a parent-school consultancy for elementary parents where she also blogs. ML is writing a book, The Parent Backpack: How to Navigate Kindergarten Through Grade 5 so your Kids Thrive…and You Survive that will be published by Crown/Random House in late summer, 2013.

What book is currently on your nightstand? Hillary Clinton’s autobiography and Creating Innovators: The Making of Young People Who Will Change The World by Tony Wagner

One thing that is going great in education in your state: Advisory board to MA DESE just approved a parent engagement plan for systemic improvements vs. random acts.

One thing you wish could be improved in education in your state: The culture of parent engagement at the school and state level. It’s one of the clearest indicators to improve student success – we can and need to empower parents—and schools—to build bridges with each other for the sake of our kids.

Secret indulgence: Yoga then chocolate.

Favorite quote: “Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Biggest wish for your kids: That they have curiosity about the world, an underlying desire to help others and a lifetime desire to learn.

Most rewarding/challenging stage of parenthood thus far (and why): Watching your kids give to others has been the most rewarding; most challenging – letting them be who they are.

Favorite family tradition: Going to pick up our Fresh Air Fund child at the bus each summer with ring pops; Christmas morning.

Favorite family activities: Vacationing at grandpas beach house in Nantucket and being without electricity.

Favorite weeknight family dinner: Steak on the grill, red potatoes and salad while discussing what’s happening in school.